The number of dedicated police patrols over the TT
festival period will at least match those of previous
years - even though there is a huge drop in the number
of visitors.
Police have decided to continue with high visibility
patrolling as they fear the risk factor of accidents
could increase owing to the cancellation of the races.

The head of operations, acting Chief Inspector Dave
Bell, said: 'Since the notification that racing was
cancelled we have kept a close eye on the expected
arrival figures and considered the risks accordingly.
At first sight of the expected arrivals it was
tempting to reduce our traffic patrols. However, we
haven't done this.

'The fact is that the reduction in volume will leave
more open space on our roads. Add to this the extra
hours available without road closures and the risk
factor could increase.
'As usual we will be policing in our normal friendly
manner, but giving out some very strong messages with
regard to road safety.

'We, like everyone else, enjoy the TT period, but we
will not see lives ruined by inconsiderate and
dangerous behaviour on the roads.'
Inspector Carolyn Kinrade, head of the force
operational support unit, said: 'We will be doing
things slightly differently this year.

'Our usual high-visibility patrolling of the TT course
and other areas of the Island with the emphasis on
accident reduction will continue. We also have plans
to speak with the travelling public whenever the
opportunity presents itself, such as outside public
houses and in the designated stopping areas, to drive
home our road safety messages. Keeping an eye on
restricted areas will also be a big part of what we
are doing.'